Starter checklist for landlords (2024 update)

Preparing a new let for tenants requires a certain degree of groundwork and an open mind. Not to mention some additional external support with things like marketing and property maintenance.

Landlords also need to be mindful of their legal obligations, from tenancy deposits and fire safety to inspecting electrical installations and complying with Right to Rent checks.

There is much to think about, which is precisely why we’ve compiled this comprehensive checklist to give budding landlords a roadmap of the key things to consider before opening their doors to new tenants.

This first-time landlord checklist for renting a house offers helpful hints and tips to help you to navigate your first steps into the rental market:

Since 2007, rental properties in England and Wales have required an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC). These must be given to the tenants on the day they move in.

An EPC is used to show tenants how energy-efficient the property is. Failure to provide this before the tenancy starts can affect your ability to evict your tenant in the future.

EPC requirements changed for landlords in 2018 by introducing a minimum energy rating of 'E' or above for new tenancies. Now, the rule applies to all tenancies, not just new ones.

In 2021, the government proposed that all rental properties would need an EPC rating of 'C' or above by 2025 – a move to make homes more energy-efficient and reduce carbon emissions to reach Net Zero targets by 2050.

However, in September 2023, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak proposed to scrap the policy to force landlords to upgrade the energy efficiency of their properties and instead encourage households to upgrade “where they can”.

With such a heavy focus on energy efficiency in the home, landlords must order an EPC before marketing their property to let and ensure their property remains energy efficient throughout.

It's also good practice to take meter readings at the start and end of each tenancy and contact energy companies to inform them who is responsible for the bills going forward.

A safe and attractive rental property won't mean much if it isn't marketed correctly, so a good advertising strategy is crucial.

Even if you don't plan on using a letting agent to manage your property, it could be worth considering an agent with access to the major property portals to give your rental plenty of exposure.

To get tenants in as soon as possible, your listing must be web-friendly with a short, snappy description and accompanying photographs of the highest quality.

Photos that are poorly lit or badly positioned could significantly reduce the number of enquiries you get from prospective renters.

However, your chosen letting agent will guide you in snapping top-notch professional photos.

Although not a legal requirement, referencing your tenants can help minimise the risk of letting your property to someone unsuitable.

Tenant referencing usually includes all of the tenant's basic information as well as previous or current employment details, addresses, and bank statements.

As a landlord, making an informed decision about who rents your property is crucial. For extra clarity and peace of mind, it's valuable to lean on a comprehensive tenant referencing service.

In addition, tenant referencing is also critical if you intend to take out Landlord Rent Guarantee Insurance.

Luckily, there are rent protection services available in case of defaults on rental payments and breaches of tenancy agreements.

A tenancy agreement is an official contract that gives the tenant the right to live in your property and you the right to receive rent from them.

The most common tenancy type is an Assured Shorthold Tenancy (AST), which includes the basic information of the tenant, landlord and property.

It will also contain the proposed dates and duration of the tenancy, a breakdown of payments and required notice periods.

To make changes to any tenancy agreement terms, you must first get the tenant's approval. Many letting agents or rental sector firms provide templates for sample agreements.

Along with the tenancy agreement, an inventory is one of the most important documents you will have as a landlord.

Inventories safeguard your investment as they contain evidence of your property's condition before and after a tenancy, ensuring that everything is accounted for.

These can be compiled by the landlord, a letting agent or an independent inventory clerk.

Before the start of the tenancy, your tenants should use the inventory to check the property and note any changes to the report.

Throughout the tenancy, it is good practice to make periodic inspections to identify any damage that does not correspond with the report.

Then, at check-out, compare the property's condition to the initial inventory to distinguish any deductions that need to be made from the tenant's deposit.

This should help to avoid disputes, as the report will contain definitive proof.

Local authorities in England have powers to introduce selective licensing of privately rented homes to tackle problems in their areas, such as high levels of crime, deprivation and anti-social behaviour.

As a new landlord, you should check if your rental property is in a selective licensing area. If your property falls under a designated area, you must obtain a relevant licence to remain legally compliant.

As a landlord, if you wish to insure your property, you must have the appropriate insurance. 

Failure to do so runs the risk of invalidating your policy. If you don't inform your building insurer that the property will be let out, you might find that you aren’t covered should you need to make a claim.

There are various types of insurance policies designed specifically for landlords. HomeLet Landlord Insurance protects buildings and contents but also covers lost rent, liability, emergency repairs and tenant damage.

Meanwhile, Landlord Rent Guarantee Insurance from HomeLet covers missed rent payments for up to six months.

It also provides up to £50,000 towards eviction costs, as well as 50% cover for vacant possession for up to three months and expert support from our experienced in-house Claims team and on-site legal support.

This list is by no means exhaustive but it goes a long way towards providing you with the necessary tools to make the most of your exciting new venture and navigate the letting process with confidence and ease.

Working with a professional, local letting agent or property management company can also provide you with an invaluable support network. This can be especially useful as you build your experience and knowledge.

Furthermore, securing appropriate insurance is crucial for all landlords. Landlord Insurance and Rent Guarantee Insurance can both give you the added reassurance that your financial interests are protected.

To find out more about Landlord Insurance and Rent Guarantee Insurance from HomeLet or to purchase a policy, please contact us on 0800 035 8258 or request a callback to discuss your needs at your convenience.

NB: This blog was first published on 14 September 2022 and has since been updated to provide the most accurate and up-to-date information available.